The tradition of giving silver spoons to children, so-called spoons for the first tooth or for christening, did not appear today. There was always a lot of meaning in this gift, a lot more than the simple material value of silver. The main ones include the following:
- Silver truly symbolizes wealth and prosperity
Having decided to buy a silver spoon for the first tooth, the donor, by the very fact of donation, expresses the wish for the child not to experience material problems in the future.
- Silverware has a positive effect on the child
This metal has pronounced antibacterial properties, which helps maintain the health of the little person.
- A spoon will open the world of religion to your baby
Orthodox symbols on a spoon will help to understand the meaning of faith not only from the stories and experiences of parents, but also visually.
Personalized silver spoons: after all, every person is unique!
A personalized silver spoon is another solution for those parents and relatives who want to give their baby a truly special thing. With us, you can order an engraving of a spoon with the child’s name, date of birth and christening. Such a product definitely cannot be confused with another spoon similar to it! And it is almost guaranteed to be preserved by the child as a precious childhood memory.
The tradition of giving a baby a silver spoon when the first tooth appears has been known for a long time. The British have a phrase about this: “If a person was born with a silver spoon in his mouth, then he is Fortune’s favorite.” Does cutlery really attract good luck? Who and when, according to tradition, can give it to a baby?
A silver spoon for the first tooth - what kind of tradition is this?
The custom of giving a silver spoon for the first tooth has existed in Rus' for a long time. The gift is given as a sign that the baby has matured and it’s time for him to switch from mother’s milk to other food. Typically, teeth come out by 6 months, which coincides with the start of complementary feeding.
Silver in Rus' was not available to everyone, so spoons made from it were given as gifts to wealthy families. According to tradition, it was important to knock the baby’s tooth three times for good luck. Modern dentists see no reason why this should be done, and do not recommend doing so. The child's gums are swollen and painful during the teething period. There is no need to further injure them.
Why is there a tradition of giving a spoon made of silver, and not gold or other material? For a long time, silver was considered a metal that protects from the evil eye and promises wealth and well-being in the home. It is believed that it contains a special, healing energy, and it will help the child grow healthy and happy, and easily overcome difficulties.
Whether to believe in it or not is up to everyone to decide for themselves. However, if wealth allows, you should not deny yourself the pleasure of presenting such a gift to relatives or friends who have children. Modern scientists have proven the positive effect of silver on people. This is a natural antiseptic that can fight up to 700 pathogenic microorganisms. A beautiful spoon will be a pleasant surprise and will allow you to preserve the memory of the giver for a long time.
Who gives the spoon?
There are several opinions about who can give a child such a gift for his first tooth. Many parents buy a present for their child themselves or accept a gift from grandparents. Sometimes distant relatives or friends present a useful surprise. However, the origins of the custom have three options for who the donor can be:
When is it customary to give?
According to tradition, it is customary to give a silver spoon when the first tooth erupts. However, nowadays many people neglect this rule. Often the cutlery is presented at a christening or one of the parents buys it as a dowry for the child. Some people buy sets of spoons of different sizes, which will be useful for the baby as they grow up.
If no one gave the baby a spoon for the first tooth, the mother can buy it herself and order an engraving service with the child’s name. In addition to a spoon, other practical gifts for a boy or girl’s first tooth will be a teether, a baby monitor, clothes, a lightweight cane stroller, and educational mats.
How to choose a spoon: silver or gold?
Which spoon is better to give to benefit the baby and please the parents: silver or gold? Some people choose based on the value of the gift. Gold is more expensive, but it is unlikely that the baby will eat from such a spoon. Silver is much cheaper, which allows you to purchase a practical and useful gift.
You should be careful when choosing your first silver spoon. The following factors are taken into account:
- Form. You should purchase cutlery with rounded edges. Otherwise, the baby may injure himself while examining the gift.
- View. It is advisable to give a dessert or teaspoon. A smaller device is impractical; a child will not be able to use it for its intended purpose. A large tablespoon is not suitable for a child's age.
- Device design. The optimal choice is classic or children's. You can engrave with the child's name, choose a spoon with flowers, fairy-tale characters on the connecting bar or holder.
- Handle surface. It is better to choose not a smooth one, but a textured one, so that the spoon does not slip out of small fingers.
- Try. Only high (925–999), with a silver content of 92%. A silver spoon for the first tooth with a protective rhodium, lacquer or gold coating can perform purely decorative functions.
- Certificate of quality. Confirms safety for the health of the child.
How to store a souvenir spoon?
Silver cutlery needs care, otherwise it will tarnish and lose its spectacular appearance. The spoon needs to be cleaned periodically:
The main feature of a gift for the first tooth is to help maintain the child’s health. Its future well-being depends on how strong it grows.
The tradition of giving a child a silver spoon is long-standing - so much so that many don’t even know why to do it. Some say that such a gift will bring good luck into the baby’s life, others are sure that a spoon is needed for the baby’s good health. Still others believe that silver cutlery is the first personal jewel and will be the foundation of a child’s wealth. We tell you why children are given a silver spoon and when it should be done.
Why is a silver spoon given as a gift?
- Silver is bactericidal. Metal has a negative effect on bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Silver water is even used to prevent and treat diseases. For a baby whose immune system is just developing, protection from harmful microorganisms is important. At first, the baby received only sterile milk from his mother, but with the appearance of the first tooth, complementary foods are introduced - food that is no longer so sterile. Therefore, by the time the first tooth appears, children have long tried to provide safe cutlery - a silver spoon.
- It is believed that silver has magical properties: it protects against evil and drives away evil spirits. Pectoral crosses and amulets are made from silver, and silver bullets were made from the same metal - they were used to hunt vampires.
- Silver is a durable metal. Silver spoons are much stronger than plastic products, which is important for children's safety. A child can break a plastic spoon and swallow a piece of it or get hurt.
- A silver spoon is the first valuable thing for children. They say that it will attract other values and money into the life of its owner, which will make him rich.
When you give a silver spoon
According to one tradition, when the first tooth erupts. The spoon is given to be used for the first feedings and to tap on the first tooth. They say that this helps the remaining teeth grow healthy.
According to other customs, a spoon is given on the day of baptism or on the anniversary of this event. Sometimes a child is given several spoons, one for each anniversary - they can be the same size or increase as the child grows (first they give a coffee spoon, then a tea spoon, then a dessert spoon and then a table spoon).
Why give a silver spoon?
- So that the child is healthy. Moreover, the cutlery is not just given as a gift, but is always carefully tapped on the first tooth that has erupted. Perhaps the association of silver with good health is due to the antibacterial properties of the metal: silver dishes have been used for many centuries to purify water from bacteria to protect against infections.
- So that the child lives in abundance. The British have a proverb: born with a silver spoon in your mouth. It is believed that such a gift will attract wealth into the child’s life.
- So that the child has good luck. The spoon becomes the child’s talisman, so the attitude towards it is appropriate: the talisman is carefully kept, often throughout life and even passed on from generation to generation.
- To attract prosperity and success into children's lives. According to tradition, for this purpose, a spoon is placed in a baby’s crib from the first days, and when a tooth appears, complementary foods are given from this spoon.
Who should give children a silver spoon?
It is customary that the gift should be given by the godparents; usually the godmother buys the spoon. But today, many families deviate from this rule and silverware can be donated by parents, aunts, grandfathers or other relatives. There is also such a version: the one who sees the tooth first gives it. Of course, more often the first tooth is noticed by mom or dad, but there are exceptions: a tooth may appear for the first time to a grandmother, nanny, or older brother or sister.
What kind of silver spoon should you give to your child?
It must be made of real silver, because only such a spoon will have all the above properties. The spoon should be safe - without sharp edges or sharply protruding elements. We recommend choosing models with handles of medium length and width. Expect that over time the child will want to eat with cutlery himself and the spoon should lie comfortably in the child’s hand.
Pay attention to the coating of the product. Galvanic is considered the best; it does not interfere with the bactericidal properties of the metal. Rhodium plating and gold plating prevent the spoon from displaying its disinfecting properties, which is why it becomes more of a decorative cutlery.
More often, coffee or tea spoons are chosen for babies - these easily fit into a child’s mouth and are convenient to feed. When the child grows up, he can use this spoon for tea or desserts. Sometimes babies are given a set of spoons of different sizes; this, like the design of the products, remains at the discretion of the parents and godparents.
First tooth! For parents, this event takes on a truly global scale. What is the reason for such a reverent attitude towards the baby’s first tooth? Why do they give a spoon for the first tooth and why a silver one? Who should give the spoon? Let's talk about this topic.
January 25, 2016· Text: Lyudmila Kleimenova· Photo: GettyImages
A silver spoon for a tooth: why is it given as a gift?
Such a gift carries a symbolic meaning, which is rooted in pagan beliefs and superstitions. Silver is a precious metal, therefore a gift in the form of a silver spoon is a symbol of material wealth that everyone wishes for a child in the future. In addition, a spoon is an object that the baby uses several times a day, so it can become a talisman and protection against the evil eye. In addition, in many countries, silver is a symbol of prosperity and success. In England, for example, they say about a lucky person that he was born with a silver spoon in his mouth, and in China they give silver chopsticks for the birth of a child. Silver has enormous energy, which, joining the child’s karma, will help him cope with difficulties.
It's up to you to believe it or not. But it seems to us that this custom is quite cute and there is no need to deny yourself the pleasure of pleasing your friends or loved ones who have small children.
The benefits of a silver spoon for a baby
So, where did the tradition of giving a silver spoon come from, we have clarified a little. However, you will be surprised to know how insightful the ancient people were in introducing the tradition of giving a baby a silver spoon.
The appearance of the child’s first tooth was a kind of signal that it was time to slowly wean him off breastfeeding. This process is difficult for a child, because “adult” products contain many microorganisms, including pathogens, which can negatively affect a weak child’s body. And silver ions are known to kill bacteria. A recent study of this metal showed that not only ordinary microbes are destroyed, but also the causative agents of diphtheria, typhus, pulmonary and intestinal infections. And even the small amount of silver that enters the body from a silver spoon has a bactericidal effect. It was not for nothing that peasants in Ancient Rus' threw a silver coin into a well. So there is a direct connection between feeding a child with a silver spoon and his health. So much for superstition!
Scientists have also found that silver makes food taste creamier and sweeter. So, if your child is capricious and does not agree to eat baby formula, try feeding him from a silver spoon - the baby’s pleasure (and peace of mind) is guaranteed.
Who should give a spoon for a tooth?
According to tradition, the spoon should be given to the person who noticed the tooth first. After this, he should lightly knock 3 times on the tooth and wish the child success and health. According to tradition, this is how and in no other way prosperity will come to the child. But since this person usually turns out to be the mother, the donors become grandparents, godparents or close family friends. In some families, it turns out that several people give a spoon at once - some for a christening, and some for a tooth. Sometimes it is more logical to do this: whoever has the means, gives. In general, this is a matter of chance and it is not so important whether your aunt, your friend or grandfather gives you a spoon.
What to give for the first tooth, besides a spoon?
The tradition of giving a silver spoon can be easily modernized. For example, engrave with the child's name, date and even birth weight. But many people don’t like the idea of buying a spoon - it can be an expensive and sometimes useless gift. There are plenty of other options.
Teether. During teething, it becomes an absolute necessity. Teethers are needed to massage the gums, since the process of teeth appearing is accompanied by itching and unpleasant sensations. You should not neglect them: if you do not give your baby a rodent, he will put everything in his mouth and can damage his gums and cause an infection. Therefore, it is so important to choose a teether that is suitable for the child’s age, of high quality and made from safe materials. There is no need to worry that the baby’s parents have already bought one – there are never enough chewers for teeth.
Cloth. It will never be redundant. Small children grow before their eyes, so it has to be changed very often. Romper suits, baby vests, caps, socks and sandals will definitely come in handy around the house. “Perishable” items that need to be changed frequently, such as bibs and pacifiers, also make good gifts. If you know how to knit, you can make knitted booties or overalls for walking. Another option is to give your baby “going out” clothes, be it a formal suit or a festive dress.
Toys. Rattles, educational games and construction toys - the child will definitely need all this, and you will save parents from unnecessary expenses. Many, by the way, prefer to receive just such gifts - they are practical and useful.
Children's cosmetics. An excellent solution would be a set of children's cosmetics. Choose only proven brands, don’t waste your time on trifles: the products usually last a long time, so their effect on delicate children’s skin will be long-lasting. If you know that your mother is a fan of organic cosmetics, then it would be a good idea to purchase organic baby products for the baby as well.
Accepted for newborns and infants. There are various folk signs and beliefs associated with such a gift.
Today, few people know the essence of traditions. Many parents and relatives are interested in why they give a silver spoon for a christening or christening.
Silver is a metal of spiritual purity. It is believed that it protects a person from everything unclean, drives away evil spirits, and attracts harmony, luck and wealth. Jewelry and cutlery are made from this material.
A silver spoon is a good alternative to plastic or other metal utensils. It not only has magical properties, but is also practical and useful.
Scientists note that silver has the ability to destroy about 650 types of harmful microorganisms. For comparison, lime and chlorine deal with such pathogens 5 times worse. Silver can cleanse the body of toxins in a short period of time. The lack of this element in a child negatively affects the state of his immune system.
As a result, a person begins to often catch colds and become infected with infectious viral diseases. Therefore, a silver spoon is a rather important gift for a baby. There are plenty of reasons to give your little one such cutlery. Some present a silver spoon to a child on his birthday and other important dates, while others strictly follow traditions.
Silver effectively fights various pathogens
In ancient times, it was customary to present such a thing to a baby on his first tooth. Later, a tradition arose of giving a silver spoon as a church attribute for christenings.
It has been scientifically proven that silver has a bactericidal effect. Therefore, from a hygienic point of view, a silver spoon for the baby is necessary.
For baptism
Today, few people know why they give a silver spoon at christenings. This tradition has its own history.
In Rus', a silver spoon was given to a child by those people who were later involved in his spiritual education - his godfather and mother.
After the Baptism ceremony, the cutlery was placed in the baby’s cradle. Such an item was considered a talisman against the evil eye, damage and other negativity. Relatives believed that a silver spoon brought prosperity and good luck into the little one’s life.
Today people do not attach great importance to superstitions, but despite this, the tradition of giving silver cutlery for baptism has been preserved. Such a product often remains in the family as a talisman and is passed on to descendants.
For the first tooth
Many parents and relatives are interested in why they give a silver spoon for the first tooth. Previously, such a tableware was given to the baby for health. When the baby's first tooth erupted, it was customary to lightly tap it with a spoon.
After this, people believed that the child would grow up rich, successful and healthy. The baby was also given his first complementary foods from a silver spoon.
It was believed that if you feed a child from such a cutlery, then his remaining teeth will erupt painlessly, be healthy and even. The use of a silver spoon also has practical significance. The fact is that the baby’s immune system is poorly developed during this period, and the baby is sensitive to new foods.
Folk signs
Presents in the form of a silver spoon were highly valued by the ancient Slavs. They gave such a device to adults and children. Noble people used silver spoons for table setting. Common people saw magical powers in such objects, so they used them as a talisman.
It was customary to pass a silver spoon down from generation to generation. It was believed that this allows one to gain health, strength and support of one’s family. Godparents gave such a thing to their godchildren on a Christian holiday.
Newborns received a silver spoon as a small souvenir. The custom of giving such cutlery is not only Slavic. In England, a noble person holding a high position is said to be born with a silver spoon in his mouth.
Residents of this country present children with such a thing upon entering school, gymnasium or university, as well as upon graduation from educational institutions. Silver cutlery is considered by the British to be a symbol of entry into adulthood. In Siberia, a spoon is given as a gift before teething in order to make this process faster and easier.
Who should give?
Previously, certain people had the right to give a silver spoon to a child. Today, folk traditions are not adhered to so strictly. This cutlery is presented by family, friends and acquaintances.
According to the rules, a silver spoon is given to the baby by the godfather and mother for baptism. When the first tooth appears, such a thing is given by the person who first noticed the eruption.
It happens that a child is presented with silver cutlery a day. Usually such a gift is given by grandparents.
If there is a silver spoon in the family, which is inherited, then the mother and father give it to the child.
How to choose?
You can buy a silver spoon for your baby’s first tooth in a church shop or in a jewelry store. The range of such products is quite large, so many parents, godparents and relatives have difficulty purchasing. When choosing a product, you need to consider what it will be used for.
If you plan to use it in the future for the first complementary feeding, then you should choose a coffee spoon no more than 13 cm in length.
The tea cutlery is suitable for the time when the baby grows up and can eat on his own. Such a product must have a length of up to 16 cm. If you plan to use a silver spoon for its intended purpose (for eating food), then you need to ask for a quality certificate for the product.
It is important to make sure that the device is suitable for feeding. You also need to pay attention to the coating material of the product. It happens that the device is treated with a composition that is harmful to children and adults. It is not recommended to buy a spoon coated with varnish, gold or rhodium. The varnish is harmful, it is more suitable for souvenirs and rare items.
Gold reduces the beneficial qualities of silver. Rhodium blocks the metal's ability to destroy pathogenic bacteria. It is necessary to choose the correct shape of the spoon handle. It should be comfortable for the baby to hold the product. A handle that is too wide and curly is not suitable. It is better to choose a rectangular shape.
Silver spoon with angel and date of birth
If a silver spoon will be used as a talisman or a family heirloom, then you should pay attention to its appearance. It is better to choose products with decor. You can order the name and date of birth of the baby, wishes of happiness and health, to be engraved on the cutlery.
You should choose a product from trusted manufacturers. The high quality of the product is confirmed by the 999 sample and documented. Baby spoons should not have sharp edges or strongly protruding decorative elements. It is important that the surface is well polished.
When choosing a gift, it is necessary to take into account the gender of the baby. For example, boys should buy cutlery with an image of an angel, stars or a bear. If you plan to present the product for a christening, it is better to put a drawing of a chapel or saints on it.
Spoons for girls are usually decorated with hearts, butterflies, and flowers. If this is a church attribute, then it may contain a cross, an image of the Virgin Mary.
The designs are applied with enamel and decorated with small stones (artificial or precious). The cost of silver spoons in jewelry stores and church shops varies between 3170-9220 rubles. The price depends on the size and decor of the product.
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Why do they give a silver spoon for christenings and for the first tooth?
Thus, a spoon for the first tooth is given to the baby for happiness, good luck and health. It is believed that if you tap such a product on an emerging tooth, further eruption will be quick and painless.
It is also customary to give a silver spoon for discharge from the hospital, christening, or birthday. There are many reasons for such a present. It is important to buy high-quality products that are safe for children. To do this, you should contact trusted stores and know the criteria for choosing such a product.
